Delivery System for Ocular Implant

ABSTRACT

A delivery system is disclosed which can be used to deliver an ocular implant into a target location within the eye via an ab interno procedure. In some embodiments, the implant can provide fluid communication between the anterior chamber and the suprachoroidal or supraciliary space while in an implanted state. The delivery system can include a proximal handle component and a distal delivery component. In addition, the proximal handle component can include an actuator to control the release of the implant from the delivery component into the target location in the eye.

REFERENCE TO PRIORITY DOCUMENT

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/865,947 entitled DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR OCULAR IMPLANT, filed Apr. 18, 2013, which claims priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/637,789, filed Apr. 24, 2012 and entitled “Delivery System for Ocular Implant.” The priority to the filing dates is hereby claimed and the disclosures of the patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

This disclosure relates generally to methods and devices for use in delivering devices for treating glaucoma.

The mechanisms that cause glaucoma are not completely known. It is known that glaucoma results in abnormally high pressure in the eye, which leads to optic nerve damage. Over time, the increased pressure can cause damage to the optic nerve, which can lead to blindness. Treatment strategies have focused on keeping the intraocular pressure down in order to preserve as much vision as possible over the remainder of the patient's life.

Pursuant to such strategies, one or more implants can be delivered into the eye for shunting fluid out of the anterior chamber in order to regulate pressure in the eye. Accurate placement of an implant in the angle of the eye is critical for the targeted effect of reducing intraocular pressure (IOP). Placing an implant too distally into the eye, such as too distally into the supraciliary space, may leave no portion of the implant remaining in the anterior chamber. This may inhibit aqueous outflow, as the fluid will not have a direct communication with the flow target location if there is no opening to the anterior chamber.

Conversely if the implant is placed too proximally in the supraciliary space such that a significant portion of the implant remains in the anterior chamber, damage to the corneal endothelium may result from implants that protrude upwards and touch the cornea. Implants placed too proximally may also touch the iris resulting in increased amounts of pigment dispersion in the eye, which can increase outflow resistance and intraocular pressure by clogging the trabecular meshwork. Correct placement of the implant is desired for a safe and successful surgical outcome.

In view of the foregoing, there is a need for improved delivery systems for delivering implants into the eye such as by way of an ab interno procedure.

SUMMARY

There is a need for improved delivery systems, devices and methods for the treatment of eye diseases such as glaucoma.

In a first embodiment, disclosed herein is a delivery device for delivering an ocular implant into an eye. The delivery device can include a proximal handle portion and a distal delivery portion coupled to a distal end of the handle portion and configured to releasably hold an ocular implant. In addition, the delivery portion can include a sheath positioned axially over a guidewire. The delivery device can further include an actuator coupled to a mechanism that releases the ocular implant from the delivery portion upon actuation of the actuator.

Also described herein are methods of delivering an ocular implant to a target location within an eye. In an embodiment, disclosed is a method including loading the ocular implant onto a distal delivery portion of a delivery system. The delivery system can include a proximal handle portion with the delivery portion coupled to a distal end of the handle portion. In addition, the delivery portion can be configured to releasably hold the ocular implant. The delivery portion can further include a sheath positioned axially over a guidewire. Additionally, the delivery device can include an actuator coupled to a mechanism that releases the ocular implant from the delivery portion upon actuation of the actuator. The method can further include inserting the distal delivery portion and the ocular implant into the eye through a corneal incision and positioning the ocular implant into the target location within the eye by way of an ab-interno procedure. Furthermore, the method can include actuating the actuator and releasing the ocular implant into the target location.

Other features and advantages should be apparent from the following description of various embodiments, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the described subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other aspects will now be described in detail with reference to the following drawings.

FIG. 1 shows an example cross-sectional view of a portion of the human eye.

FIG. 2 shows and an example partial cross-sectional view of the eye showing a part of the anterior and posterior chambers of the eye and an ocular implant implanted in the eye.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a delivery device having a proximal handle component and a distal delivery component with an ocular implant loaded onto the distal delivery component.

FIG. 4 shows a close up view of the distal end of the delivery component of FIG. 3 which illustrates the implant loaded onto a guidewire of the delivery system.

FIG. 5 shows a partial cross section view of the delivery system of FIG. 3 showing a distal portion of the handle component, including the spring-loaded actuator in a compressed configuration, and the distal delivery component.

FIG. 6 shows the partial cross section view of the delivery system of FIG. 5 with the spring-loaded actuator shown in a decompressed configuration which releases the implant from the distal delivery component.

FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of the guidewire of the delivery system having a curved configuration.

FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of the guidewire of the delivery system having a sinusoidal configuration.

FIG. 9 shows an embodiment of the guidewire of the delivery system having a length sufficient to extend from the supraciliary space down to the sub-retinal space.

FIG. 10 shows an enlarged view of the anterior region of the eye with the implant approaching the supraciliary space or suprachoroidal space from the anterior chamber.

Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional, perspective view of a portion of the eye showing the anterior and posterior chambers of the eye. A schematic representation of an implant 105 is positioned inside the eye such that a proximal end 110 is located in the anterior chamber 115 and a distal end 120 communicates with and/or is located in or near the supraciliary space or suprachoroidal space (sometimes referred to as the perichoroidal space). It should be appreciated that FIG. 1 and other figures herein are schematic and are not necessarily to scale with respect to size and relative positions of actual eye tissue.

The implant 105 provides a fluid pathway between the anterior chamber 115 into the supraciliary space and toward the suprachoroidal space. The implant 105 has a distal end 120 that may be positioned in the supraciliary space or the suprachoroidal space. The implant 105 may be positioned at least partially between the ciliary body and the sclera or it may be at least partially positioned between the sclera and the choroid. The distal end 120 of the implant 105 is not necessarily positioned between the choroid and the sclera.

In an embodiment, the implant 105 is an elongate element having one or more internal lumens through which aqueous humor can flow from the anterior chamber 115 into the supraciliary space. The implant 105 can have a substantially uniform internal diameter along its entire length, although the shape of the implant 105 can vary along its length (either before or after insertion of the implant), as described below. Moreover, the implant 105 can have various cross-sectional shapes (such as a circular, oval or rectangular shape) and can vary in cross-sectional shape moving along its length. The cross-sectional shape can be selected to facilitate easy insertion into the eye. The following applications describe exemplary implants: U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2007-0191863 and 2009-0182421. These applications are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the human eye. The eye is generally spherical and is covered on the outside by the sclera S. The retina (not shown) lines the inside posterior half of the eye. The retina registers the light and sends signals to the brain via the optic nerve. The bulk of the eye is filled and supported by the vitreous body, a clear, jelly-like substance. The elastic lens L is located near the front of the eye. The lens L provides adjustment of focus and is suspended within a capsular bag from the ciliary body CB, which contains the muscles that change the focal length of the lens. A volume in front of the lens L is divided into two by the iris I, which controls the aperture of the lens and the amount of light striking the retina. The pupil is a hole in the center of the iris I through which light passes. The volume between the iris I and the lens L is the posterior chamber PC. The volume between the iris I and the cornea is the anterior chamber AC. Both chambers are filled with a clear liquid known as aqueous humor.

The ciliary body CB continuously forms aqueous humor in the posterior chamber PC by secretion from the blood vessels. The aqueous humor flows around the lens L and iris I into the anterior chamber and exits the eye through the trabecular meshwork, a sieve-like structure situated at the corner of the iris I and the wall of the eye (the corner is known as the iridocorneal angle). Some of the aqueous humor filters through the trabecular meshwork near the iris root into Schlemm's canal, a small channel that drains into the ocular veins. A smaller portion rejoins the venous circulation after passing through the ciliary body and eventually through the sclera (the uveoscleral route).

The internal lumen of the implant 105 serves as a passageway for the flow of aqueous humor through the implant 105 directly from the anterior chamber toward or into the supraciliary or suprachoroidal space. In addition, the internal lumen of the implant 105 can be used as an access location to mount the implant 105 onto a delivery device, as described in more detail below. The internal lumen can also be used as a pathway for flowing fluid, such as an irrigation fluid or a visco-elastic substance(s), into the eye for flushing or to maintain pressure in the anterior chamber, or using the fluid to assist in dissection, visualization or hydraulic creation of a dissection plane into or within the suprachoroidal space.

Fluid can be flowed toward or into the supraciliary or suprachoroidal space, for example via a delivery cannula or through the internal lumen of the shunt. The fluid can be flowed into the eye with a pressure sufficient to form a dissection plane into or within the supraciliary suprachoroidal space. The fluid can accumulate within the eye so as to form a lake. In general, hydro-dissection or the injection of fluids such as a visco-elastic substance(s) can be used to separate the ciliary body from the sclera to enlarge an area of detachment of the ciliary body from the sclera with or without insertion of a device.

FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of a delivery system 305 that can be used to deliver the implant 105 into the eye. In some embodiments, the implant 105 can provide fluid communication between the anterior chamber toward the suprachoroidal or supraciliary space while in an implanted state. It should be appreciated that these delivery systems 305 are exemplary and that variations in the structure, shape and actuation of the delivery system 305 are possible. The delivery system 305 can include a proximal handle component 310 and a distal delivery component 312. The proximal handle component 310 can include an actuator 420, such as a button, to control the release of an implant from the delivery component 312 into a target location in the eye. The actuator 420 can vary in structure and is not limited to a button.

An embodiment of the delivery component 312 includes an elongate applier in the form of a guidewire 515 and a “stopper” or sheath 510 positioned axially over the guidewire 515. The guidewire 515 can insert longitudinally through the internal lumen of the implant 105 and can assist in inserting and positioning the implant 105 into the target location. The sheath 510 can aid in the release of the implant 105 from the delivery component 312 into the target location in the eye. In addition, the actuator 420 can be used to control movement or relative movement of the guidewire 515 and/or the sheath 510. For example, the sheath 510 can be fixed relative to the handle component 310 and act as a stopper which can impede the implant 105 from moving in a proximal direction as the guidewire 515 is withdrawn proximally from the implant 105 upon actuation of the actuator 420.

For example, in a first state, the guidewire 515 can be extended distally relative to a distal end of the sheath 510. Actuation of the actuator 420, such as by pressing the actuator 420, can cause the guidewire 515 to slide proximally or retract into the sheath 510. This can effectively disengage the implant 105 off the distal end of the guidewire 515 and releases the implant 105 in a controlled fashion into the target location. Controlled disengagement of the implant 105 off the distal end of the guidewire 515 can assist in ensuring that positioning of the implant 105 within the target location is maintained.

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the implant 105 mounted on the delivery component 312 of the delivery system 305. More specifically, the implant 105 can be mounted on the distal region of the guidewire 515, as shown in FIG. 4. In addition, the sheath 510 can be sized and shaped to receive or abut a portion of the proximal end of the implant 105. In this embodiment, upon actuation of the actuator 420, the guidewire 515 can slide in a proximal direction (arrow P) into the sheath 510 which can allow the proximal end of the implant 105 to abut the distal end of the sheath 510 and prevent the implant 105 from sliding in the proximal direction. This can effectively disengage the implant 105 off the distal end of the guidewire 515 and controllably releases the implant 105 into the target location within the eye.

In some embodiments, the actuator 420 can be a push-button that is coupled to a spring-activated mechanism. Upon applying a force onto the actuator 420, the spring mechanism can retract the guidewire 515 toward and/or into the sheath 510 which can release the implant 105 from the guidewire 515. The mechanism by which the guidewire 515 can be withdrawn into the sheath 510 can be a spring activated assembly or any of a variety of mechanisms that allow the guidewire to retract upon activation of an actuator.

FIG. 5 shows an embodiment of a portion of the delivery system 305 in cross-section with the implant 105 loaded onto the guidewire 515. The delivery system 305 can include a front spring 550 which can assist in positioning the guidewire 515. For example, the front spring 550 can be compressed or charged which can allow the guidewire 515 to be positioned in an extended state relative to the handle 310. When the guidewire 515 is in an extended state, the guidewire 515 can be loaded with the implant 105, as shown in FIG. 5.

The delivery system 305 can include a variety of mechanisms for assisting in the positioning of the guidewire 515. For example, the delivery system 305 can include a feature which can interact with the actuator 420 in order to allow the actuator to assist in positioning the guidewire 515. For example, the guidewire 515 can be attached at a proximal end to a piston 560 having a de-tent latch 555. The de-tent latch 555 can interact with the actuator 420 such that upon actuation of the actuator 420, the 555 latch can release the piston 560 from a locked position and allow the piston 560 to move. For example, once the piston 560 is allowed to move, the front spring 550 can force the piston to move in a direction, such as in a proximal direction, thus causing the guidewire 515 to move in a proximal direction. Movement of the guidewire 515 in a proximal direction can allow the implant 105 loaded on the distal end of the guidewire 515 to be released from the guidewire 515.

In some embodiments, the actuator 420 can be configured such that when actuated or depressed by the user, the detent latch 555 of the piston 560 is flexed downward thereby allowing the front spring 550 to release. As the piston 560 moves proximally with the guidewire 515, the implant 105 can abut the distal end of the stopper tube 510 and release from the guidewire 515. FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of the delivery system 305 in a retracted state where the front spring 550 is in a decompressed state with the implant 105 fully released from the guidewire 515.

The travel of the piston 560 can be defined such that the guidewire 515 reaches a complete stop in the proximal direction only after the implant 105 is fully released. In addition, the force of the front spring 550 can allow withdrawal of the guidewire 515 from the implant 105 when the implant 105 is positioned in a variety of angles relative to the stopper tube 510. For example, the force of the front spring 550 can allow the withdrawal of the guidewire 515 from the implant 105 when the implant 105 is at a 45 degree angle relative to the stopper tube 510, such as what may be encountered when the implant 105 is being deployed to the supraciliary space.

In some embodiments, for example, the front spring 550 can provide approximately 1.0 to 2.0 lbf at the compressed or charged configuration which can allow the guidewire 515 to withdraw from the implant 105, including when the implant 105 is positioned at an approximate 45 degree angle relative to the stopper tube 510. However, the front spring 550 can provide any of a variety of spring force which allows the guidewire 515 to release the implant 105 positioned at a variety of angles relative to at least the stopper tube 510.

In some embodiments, the front spring 550 can create approximately 2.0 to 10.0 lbf. For example, a greater spring force of the front spring 550 can allow the guidewire 515 to retract in a variety of conditions. In addition, a lower force of the front spring, such as 0.10 to 1.0 lbf, may reduce the speed of the retraction and reduce the force required to reload the system. Any of a variety of front springs 550 can be implemented in the delivery system 350.

A dampening element, such as grease 565, may be placed between the piston 560 and inside wall of the handle 310 which can assist in providing a slower retraction of the guidewire 515. A slower retraction of the guidewire 515 can prevent or lessen any jerking motion of the delivery system 350 in the user's hands, including at the end of the piston 560 travel. This dampening grease 565 can be a silicone grease such that grease is unaffected by production level e-beam sterilization dose of 25-50 kGy. In addition, other dampening elements aside from grease 565 may be used. Alternate dampening grease such as low, medium, or high viscosity fluorocarbons may be used to alter the dampening and speed of deployment. These materials may have a larger acceptable e-beam sterilization range.

In some embodiments, the spring-activated retraction of the guidewire 515 can improve the delivery of supraciliary and suprachoroidal implants. For example, some current tools for implanting ocular implants require a sliding motion of the user's finger, such as in the range of approximately 0.280″ inches of travel, in order to release the implant. The sliding motion can be difficult for surgeons to achieve while simultaneously holding the distal end of the delivery tool steady. In contrast, the spring-activated mechanism of the present disclosure, including the spring activated push-button mechanism, allows for smaller and more ergonomic motion of the users finger to activate guidewire 515 retraction which also allows the user to maintain the distal end of the delivery device 312 in a steady position. In addition, the spring-activated mechanism of the present disclosure can allow implantation to occur more quickly and with less unwanted distal movement of the implant 105 during the guidewire retention.

The outer diameter of the guidewire 515 can be smaller than the inner diameter of the implant 105 (i.e. the fluid channel) such that the implant 105 can be loaded onto the guidewire 515 by sliding the guidewire 515 into and through an internal lumen of the implant 105. In some embodiments, the guidewire 515 can include a retention feature that can act to retain the implant 105 on the guidewire 515. For example, the guidewire 515 can include a retention feature which can assist in retaining the implant 105 on the guidewire 515 during blunt dissection and implantation in order to prevent the implant 105 from inadvertently sliding off the guidewire 515.

Before the implant 105 has been released from the guidewire 515 and implanted into the target location within the eye, the implant 105 can be moved either distally or proximally in order to adjust its placement. This can exert axial forces on the implant 105 which may cause it to slip off the guidewire 515 if it is not well retained on the guidewire 515. Therefore, in some embodiments, the guidewire 515 can include features which can assist in retaining the implant 105 onto the guidewire 515 during positioning of the implant 105, including positioning the implant 105 within the target location.

FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of a guidewire 515 which has at least one retention feature including a curved configuration 520 along a length of the guidewire 515. In some embodiments, the curved configuration 520 of the guidewire 515 can assist in facilitating entry of the implant 105 into the supracilliary space. In addition, the curvature of the guidewire 515 can change the shape of the implant 105 due to the implant 105 conforming to the curved shape of the guidewire 515 which can facilitate placement of the implant 105 into the supraciliary space as it curves along the scleral wall. The curvature radius or arc, including the curved configuration 520 of the guidewire 515, can vary and can be in the range of approximately 0.425″ to about 0.525″ with a central angle of approximately 20 degrees to approximately 40 degrees.

Additionally, any part of the guidewire 515 can have the curved configuration 520, including either the distal end or the entire length of the guidewire 515. Furthermore, the guidewire 515 can alternate between having a variety of configurations, including both straight and curved configurations. For example, the guidewire 515 can have a curved configuration in its natural state but can conform to a straight passageway, such as through the handle 310 of the delivery system 305. Therefore, the guidewire 515 can conform to a straight passageway and return to a curved configuration after having passed through the straight passageway.

In some embodiments, the guidewire 515 can have one or more cut patters along a length of the guidewire 515 which can allow the guidewire 515 to be more flexible than the material comprising the guidewire 515 can allow. For example, the distal end or tip of the guidewire 515 can include a spiral cut pattern which allows the tip of the guidewire 515 to deflect or bend in one or more of a variety of directions relative to a longitudinal axis of the guidewire 515. Furthermore, the spiral cut pattern can allow the distal end or tip of the guidewire 515 to deflect or bend to a greater degree than what the guidewire could achieve without the spiral cut pattern. These cut patterns may additionally serve as fluid conduits which can provide a passageway for substances injected into the guidewire 515 to be released to an area surrounding the guidewire, including either the implant or the eye.

FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of the guidewire 515 having at least one retention feature including a sinusoidal or S-curve configuration along a length of the guidewire 515. The sinusoidal or S-curve configuration can assist in retaining the implant 105 onto the guidewire 515, such as by at least one curved region 524 along a length of the guidewire 515. The at least one curved feature can include a protrusion, bump, etc. For example, the curved feature 524 can be configured to provide an interference fit between the guidewire 515 and the inner lumen of the implant 105.

In some embodiments, the retention feature can include an S-shaped curve along a length of the guidewire 515 which can have one or more rounded curved features 524, including bends or peaks, as shown in FIG. 8. Furthermore, each retention feature, such as curved feature 524, can form a point of contact between the inner lumen of the implant 105 and the guidewire 515. The curved features 524.of the guidewire S-curve can also reduce the risk of damaging the inner lumen of the implant 105 as the guidewire 515 is released from the implant 105. In addition, the retention features can provide a gentle interaction and retention between the guidewire 515 and the implant 105, including during removal of the guidewire 515 from the implant 105. Alternatively, the guidewire 515 retention features can be stamped, bent or shape-set, including in the shape of swells or other formations along at least a part of the length of the guidewire 515.

In an embodiment, an amount of retention force can be defined by the peak-to-peak distance between two or more retention features or curved features 524 of the implant 105. For example, larger peak-to-peak distances between the two or more curved features 524 can produce higher retention forces and smaller peak-to-peak distances can produce lower retention forces. In some embodiments, a peak-to-peak distance that is too large can cause damage to the implant 105, such as due to the guidewire 515 scraping away material along the inner lumen during removal. For example, the peak-to-peak distance may be in the range of approximately 0.0100″ to approximately 0.0200″, or in the range of approximately 0.0120″ to approximately 0.0150″. In addition, at least one retention force acting upon the implant 105, such as a polyimide implant, by the guidewire 515 of approximately 0.050-0.200 lbf can be sufficient to retain the implant 105 along the guidewire 515 during manipulation of the implant 105 prior to implantation into the target location.

In alternate embodiments, the material of the guidewire 515 can be made out of one or more flexible materials, such as metals including stainless steel or elgiloy, and polymers such as Pebax, silicones, urethanes, including a variety of combinations of materials. In some embodiments, the guidewire 515 can have a radius of curvature or arc which is less than 0.425″, such as in order to provide a small curvature of the implant 105 during insertion. This configuration can be advantageous when access between the incision and the target location requires the implant 105 to be introduced into the target location by way of a small radius, such as less than 0.425″.

Alternatively, the radius of curvature or arc of the guidewire 515 can be larger than 0.525″. Any of a variety of radius of curvature or arcs of the guidewire 515 can be implemented into any of the delivery systems 305 in order to best accommodate insertion of the implant 105 into the designated target location. For example, the radius of curvature or arc of the guidewire 515 may be such that it can allow the implant 105 to bend against the scleral wall during insertion into the supraciliary space. In addition, the retention features of the guidewire 515 can vary and can include one or more of a variety of shapes and sizes along a length of the guidewire 515. For example, the retention features can be configured to include spiral shapes, triangle peaks or the like. Additionally, the retention features can extend along one or more of a variety of planes, including more than one retention feature extending in planes positioned perpendicular relative to each other.

In addition, any number of retention features can be positioned along a length of the guidewire 515. For example, at least two, including more than five or more than ten retention features can be positioned along a length of the guidewire 515. In addition, each retention feature can provide the same or a variety of different amounts of retention forces for securing the implant 105 in a position along the guidewire 515. In some embodiments, the peak-to-peak distance between the retention features can be larger than the inner diameter of the implant 105 and can be a dimensioned larger than 0.0150″ such that it does not damage the implant 105.

In some embodiments of the delivery system 305, instead of using the guidewire 515 to provide retention of the implant 105, an additional feature of the delivery system 305 or device can be used in order to provide the necessary retention of the implant 105 onto the guidewire 515. This may include, for example, a Pebax material which can be coupled onto a part of the guidewire 515 in order to create at least a width along the guidewire 515 that is larger than the inner diameter of the implant 105. For example, the Pebax material can be crimped to the guidewire and can retain the implant 105 relative to the guidewire 515 until the implant 150 is released from the delivery system 305, such as after actuation of the actuator 420.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the delivery system 305 can include at least one fluid delivery feature which can be configured to deliver fluid into at least one of the implant or the eye, including during or after implantation of the implant 105. The delivered fluid can vary and may include a viscoelastic, drugs, stem cells, or a combination thereof. In addition, the delivery may be in combination with retinal or macula therapy.

The at least one fluid delivery feature can include an elongated tube 370 having at least one inner lumen. The elongated tube 370 can extend outward from the handle 310. In addition, the elongated tube 370 can extend through the handle 310. Additionally, the elongated tube 370 can have an internal lumen which communicates with an internal lumen of the guidewire 515.

In some embodiments, the guidewire 515 can include one or more outlet openings, such as slots 541 (FIG. 4), which can be located along a length of the guidewire 515, including along a distal region of the guidewire 515. The slots 541 can allow fluid communication between the internal lumen of the guidewire 515 and an area surrounding the guidewire 515. In addition, the outlet openings or slots 541 can also be in fluid communication with at least one inner lumen of the elongated tube 370.

In some embodiments, the elongated tube 370 can be connected at a proximal end to a source of fluid (such as via a Luer connection). The source of fluid can provide fluid into at least one inner lumen of the elongated tube 370 which can be delivered to a variety of places either within at least one of the delivery system 305, the implant 105 or the eye. For example, some of the fluid provided by the fluid source can be passed through the elongated tube 370 and exit the guidewire 515 via the slots 541 for delivery into the eye.

The size of the at least one inner lumens of the elongated tube 370 and guidewire 515 may vary. In an embodiment, the inner lumen of either the elongated tube 370 or guidewire 515 can be within a range of approximately 0.001″ to approximately 0.010″ in diameter, or approximately 0.005″ to approximately 0.009″ in diameter. In addition, the size of the inner lumen can depend on the size constraints of the outer diameter of either the elongated tube 370 or the guidewire 515.

In some embodiments, the distal slots 541 of the guidewire 515 can allow fluid from at least the fluid source to be delivered to a distal end of the implant 105, including during or after implantation of the implant 105. In addition, fluid from the fluid source can be delivered to an area adjacent the distal end of the implant in order to create an aqueous lake or create a tenting effect around at least a part of or adjacent the implant 105. The size and location of the slots 541 can be sized, shaped and positioned along the guidewire 515 in order to create a variety of fluid delivery effects. For example, at least two slots 541 can be configured symmetrically relative to the distal end of the guidewire 515 which can allow the fluid to be delivered symmetrically around or near the distal end of the implant.

In an embodiment, the flow rate of the fluid from the fluid source can be within a range of approximately 1 mg/sec to 10 mg/sec, or approximately 2 mg/sec to 5 mg/sec. In addition, the burst pressure of the delivery system 305, including the fluid delivery features, can be large enough to withstand the pressure of injecting a fluid through the lumens of the delivery system 305 and implants 105.

In some embodiments, the burst pressure of the delivery system 305 can be larger than the pressure required for the fluid to flow from the fluid source through at least the delivery system 305. For example, the burst pressure can be approximately 400 psi to approximately 1500 psi, or approximately 600 psi to approximately 1200 psi. In addition, the burst pressure required for viscoelastic flow of Healon 5 can be approximately 100 psi to approximately 500 psi, or approximately 200 psi to approximately 300 psi.

In some embodiments, fluid from the fluid source can be delivered to one or more sections along the axial length of the implant 105. For example, one or more holes along the length of the implant 105 (as shown in FIG. 4) can be configured to be sufficiently large such that a fluid may be delivered from the guidewire 515. For example, one or more slits 514 positioned along the length of the guidewire 515, such as below a loaded implant 105, can allow fluid to travel through the at least one hole along the length of the implant 105 and into the eye. For example, the fluid can flow out from the one or more holes along the length of the implant and into the supraciliary or suprachoroidal space surrounding the body of the implant 105 (depending on where the implant is positioned and the length of the implant). The release of fluid through the at least one hole along the length of the implant 105 can assist in creating additional space surrounding the implant 105 which can improve tenting.

One or more drugs can be delivered to the inner lumen of the implant 105 through the one or more holes or slits 514 along the axial length of the guidewire 515. Alternatively or in addition, drugs can be delivered through the guidewire 515 slots 541 positioned at or near the distal end of the guidewire 515 which can dispense fluid either before or during retraction of the guidewire 515. In some instances, this can reduce the fibrotic response of the surrounding tissue to the implant 105. Additionally, the delivery of fluids may be administered through separate components that do not retain the implant 105. For example, separate tubes may be inserted into the eye alongside of the implant 105 which can deliver drugs or viscoelastic to, for example, the distal end of the implant 105.

The system may also be used for the ab-interno delivery of fluids to other locations in the eye. FIG. 9, for example, shows the guidewire 515 having a length sufficient to extend from the supraciliary space down to the sub-retinal space. Fluid delivery in the subretinal portion of the eye may be advantageous because it can allow for direct delivery of drugs to the macula for diseases such as age related macular degeneration (AMD) or diabetic retinopathy, or the like. A variety of drugs can be delivered to the sub-retinal space, including anti-VEGF treatments or the like. Alternatively other fluids containing a stem cell therapeutic may be delivered through the guidewire 515 and into the sub-retinal or sub-macula space. These could be used to treat disease such as glaucoma, AMD, and diabetic retinopathy.

Additionally, fluid may be delivered to various anatomical structures comprising the eye. For example, fluid can be delivered to anatomical structures such as the Schlemm's Canal. By way of further example, the guidewire 515 can be passed through the Trabecular Meshwork, such as via an ab interno procedure, and into the Schlemm's Canal where viscoelastic substances can then be injected. The viscoelastic substances can then travel circumferentially around the eye for a number of hours which can dilate the Schlemm's Canal. In another embodiment, the guidewire 515 may be inserted through the sclera with the tip of the guidewire 515 just below the conjunctiva. Fluids such as viscoelastic may then be injected to create a sub-conjunctiva space which can form a filtration bleb.

A guidewire 515 assembly having an increased stiffness, such as one made from Nitinol, can be appropriately sized and delivered through an ab-interno approach. Alternate materials such as flexible polymers including Pebax, silicone, and urethane, can also be used. The ab-interno procedure can offer a patient significant reductions in complications and risks that are associated with the current ab-externo procedures, including conjunctivitis.

An example method of delivering and implanting the ocular implant 105 in the eye can include loading one or more implants 105 on a delivery system 305 and implanting the implants 105 by way of an ab interno procedure. The implant 105 can be implanted such that it can provide fluid communication between the anterior chamber and the supraciliary or suprachoroidal space. The implant 105 can then be secured in the eye so that it provides permanent fluid communication between the anterior chamber and the supraciliary space or suprachoroidal space.

The guidewire 515 can be positioned on the delivery system 305 such that the distal tip of the guidewire 515, the implant 105 and sheath 510 can penetrate through a small corneal incision in order to access the anterior chamber, such as along the limbus of the cornea. In an embodiment, the incision can be very close to the limbus, such as either at the level of the limbus or within 2 mm of the limbus in the clear cornea. The guidewire 515 can be used to make the incision or a separate cutting device can be used. For example, a knife-tipped device or diamond knife can be used to initially enter the cornea.

The corneal incision can have a size that is sufficient to permit passage of at least the implant 105. In an embodiment, the incision can be approximately 1 mm in size. In another embodiment, the incision can be no greater than approximately 2.85 mm in size. In another embodiment, the incision is no greater than approximately 2.85 mm and can be greater than approximately 1.5 mm.

After insertion through the incision, the guidewire 515 can be advanced into the anterior chamber along a pathway that enables the implant 105 to be delivered to a position such that the implant 105 provides a flow passageway from the anterior chamber toward the suprachoroidal space. The guidewire 515 can be advanced further into the eye such that the blunt distal tip of the guidewire 515 and/or the implant 105 seats with and can penetrate the iris root IR or a region of the ciliary body CB or the iris root part of the ciliary body near its tissue border with the scleral spur.

The guidewire 515 can approach the iris root from the same side of the anterior chamber as the deployment location such that the guidewire 515 does not have to be advanced across the iris. Alternately, the guidewire 515 can approach the location from across the anterior chamber such that the guidewire 515 is advanced across the iris and/or the anterior chamber toward the opposite iris root. The guidewire 515 can approach the eye and the iris root along a variety of pathways. For example, the guidewire 515 can be advanced through the anterior chamber such that it does not intersect the optical axis of the eye. In other words, the corneal incision and the location where the implant 105 is implanted at the iris root can be in the same quadrant (if the eye is viewed from the front and divided into four quadrants).

FIG. 10 shows an enlarged view of the anterior region of the eye showing the anterior chamber AC, the cornea C, the iris I, and the sclera S. In addition, FIG. 10 shows the implant 105 loaded onto a guidewire 515 and approaching the supraciliary space or suprachoroidal space from the anterior chamber AC. The implant 105 mounted on the guidewire 515 can move along a pathway such that the dissection entry point of the distal tip of the guidewire 515 can penetrate the iris root IR near its junction with the scleral spur SSp or the iris root portion of the ciliary body CB or other desired location. The surgeon can rotate or reposition the handle 310 of the delivery system 305 in order to obtain a proper approach trajectory for the distal tip of the guidewire 515, as described in further detail below.

The guidewire 515 with the implant 105 positioned thereupon can be advanced from a region of the anterior chamber which can be viewed through a transparent zone of the cornea to a region of the anterior chamber that may be obscured by an opaque zone of the cornea. The guidewire 515 and implant 105 can be advanced through the cornea C until resistance is felt and the delivery device can be seated at a location near the iris root IR, the ciliary body or the iris root portion of the ciliary body. The guidewire 515 can then be advanced further such that the guidewire 515 and implant 105 loaded thereon can penetrate an area of fibrous attachment between the scleral spur SSP and the ciliary body CB. This area of fibrous attachment can be approximately 1 mm in length. Once the distal tip of the guidewire 515 penetrates and is urged past this fibrous attachment region, the guidewire 515 can then more easily cause the sclera S to peel away or otherwise separate from the ciliary body CB and possibly the choroid as the guidewire 515 follows the inner curve of the sclera S and enters the supraciliary space. A combination of the guidewire's tip shape, material, material properties, diameter, flexibility, compliance, coatings, pre-curvature etc. can make it more inclined to follow an implantation pathway which mirrors the curvature of the inner wall of the sclera and between tissue layers such as between the sclera and the ciliary body, and between the sclera and the choroid.

The dissection plane of the guidewire 515 and implant 105 can follow the curve of the inner scleral wall such that the implant 105 mounted on the guidewire 515 can bluntly dissect the boundary between the scleral spur SSp and the ciliary body CB such that a distal region of the implant extends into the supraciliary space. For example, the dissection plane can be formed by the guidewire 515 and implant 105 after either the guidewire 515 or implant 105 penetrates the iris root or the iris root portion of the ciliary body. In an embodiment, the implant 105 can be positioned such that it does not extend anteriorly past the scleral spur SSP far enough to reach or otherwise contact the choroid. In addition, in some embodiments, the distal end of the implant 105 does not reach and cannot contact the choroid. In another embodiment, the implant 105 can extend sufficiently past the scleral spur SSP such that it can be positioned between the tissue boundaries of the sclera and the choroid (the suprachoroidal space).

In some embodiments, at least approximately 1 mm to approximately 2 mm of the implant (along the length) remains in the anterior chamber AC. The implant 105 can be positioned so that a portion of the implant 105 is sitting on top of the ciliary body CB. The ciliary body CB may act as a platform off of which the implant 105 can cantilever towards or into the suprachoroidal space SChS although the implant may not actually enter the suprachoroidal space. The implant 105 can lift or “tent” the sclera S outward such that a tented chamber is formed around the distal end of the implant 105. It should be appreciated that the actual contour of the tented region of tissue may differ in the actual anatomy. In some embodiments, the distal end of the implant 105 does not extend far enough to reach the choroid. In another embodiment, the distal end of the implant 105 reaches the choroid and can contact the choroid.

Once properly positioned, the implant 105 can then be released from the guidewire 515. The implant 105 can be released for example by withdrawing the guidewire 515 such that the implant 105 is effectively disengaged in a controlled manner from the tip of the guidewire 515 with the assistance of the sheath 510, as described above.

The implant 105 can include one or more structural features near its proximal region that aid to anchor or retain the implant 105 in the target location in the eye. The structural features can include flanges, protrusions, wings, tines, or prongs, and the like which can lodge into surrounding eye anatomy in order retain the implant 105 in place and prevent the implant 105 from moving further into the suprachoroidal space SchS.

While this specification contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of an invention that is claimed or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable sub-combination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or a variation of a sub-combination. Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. Only a few examples and implementations are disclosed. Variations, modifications and enhancements to the described examples and implementations and other implementations may be made based on what is disclosed. 

1. A delivery system for delivering an ocular implant into an eye, the delivery system comprising: a proximal handle portion; a delivery portion coupled to the handle portion, the delivery portion configured to releasably couple to an ocular implant, the delivery portion including a guidewire that fits through an inner lumen of the ocular implant; wherein the guidewire includes at least one curved section for providing an interference fit between the guidewire and an inner lumen of the ocular implant when the ocular implant is mounted on the guidewire to assist in retaining the implant on the guidewire during delivery into the eye.
 2. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the delivery portion further includes a sheath positioned axially over at least a portion of the guidewire.
 3. The delivery system of claim 1, further comprising an actuator that actuates to cause an ocular implant coupled to the delivery portion to release from the delivery portion upon actuation of the actuator.
 4. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the guidewire comprises an s-shape.
 5. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the guidewire comprises a sinusoidal curve shape.
 6. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the curved section of the guidewire is confined along a discrete section of the guidewire such that the discrete section of the guidewire forms a radius of curvature that is tighter than a radius of curvature of the entire guidewire.
 7. The delivery system of claim 3, wherein, when the implant has been delivered into the eye, actuation of the actuator causes the guidewire to withdraw from the ocular implant in a proximal direction.
 8. The delivery system of claim 7, wherein the delivery portion further includes a sheath positioned axially over at least a portion of the guidewire and wherein a distal end of the sheath abuts a proximal end of an ocular implant when the ocular implant is positioned on the guidewire, and wherein the distal end of the sheath prevents the ocular implant from moving toward the handle portion as the guidewire withdraws in a proximal direction.
 9. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the guidewire comprises at least two curved sections, the curved sections being spaced from one another a distance of about 0.0100 inch to 0.0200 inch along the length of the guidewire.
 10. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the guidewire includes at least one inner lumen.
 11. The delivery system of claim 10, wherein the guidewire includes at least one opening that provides fluid communication between the inner lumen of the guidewire and an area surrounding the guidewire.
 12. The delivery system of claim 11, wherein the area surrounding the guidewire comprises an inner lumen of an ocular implant.
 13. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the delivery system includes at least one fluid delivery feature which delivers fluid from a fluid source and into an inner lumen of the guidewire.
 14. The delivery system of claim 13, wherein the fluid from the fluid source includes one or more of a viscoelastic, a drug and a stem cell.
 15. The delivery system of claim 1, further comprising an ocular implant formed of a tubular structure having an internal lumen.
 16. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the ocular implant is configured to drain fluid from an anterior chamber of an eye to a supraciliary space of an eye.
 17. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein a distal portion of the guidewire is configured to separate a ciliary body of the eye from a sclera of the eye.
 18. The delivery system of claim 3, wherein the actuator includes a mechanism that includes a spring, the spring being coupled to the guidewire.
 19. The delivery system of claim 18, wherein actuation of the actuator causes the spring to move the guidewire between a first position and a second position relative to the handle portion.
 20. The delivery system of claim 18, wherein actuation of the actuator causes the spring to move the guidewire in a distal direction relative to the handle portion.
 21. The delivery system of claim 18, wherein actuation of the actuator causes the spring to move the guidewire in a proximal direction relative to the handle portion.
 22. The delivery system of claim 1, wherein the curved portion of the guidewire has a nominal longitudinal axis and one or more wire peaks separated from the nominal longitudinal axis, wherein each of the peaks contacts an inner surface of the ocular implant to assist in retaining the implant on the guidewire during delivery into the eye. 